Reusing Existing Buildings: A Sustainable Approach to Urban Regeneration
At Den Architecture, we are committed to sustainable design, and the AXIS project in Leeds exemplifies how reimagining existing buildings can have significant environmental and economical benefits. Located on a prominent site alongside York Road, the building had stood derelict for years before being transformed into a thriving residential development of 54 modern apartments.
Before
After
The Environmental Benefits of Reuse
By retaining the building’s core structure, the project significantly reduced construction waste and the demand for new materials. This approach aligns with circular economy principles, minimising environmental impact while giving the building a new lease of life.
The lightweight SFS façade further contributed to the building’s sustainability by improving thermal performance, ensuring the apartments meet modern energy standards. Additionally, the integration of features like cycle parking, large balconies, and roof terraces promotes sustainable urban living by prioritising active travel and outdoor amenity space.
View showing the retention of existing concrete frame structure & brickwork facade
Economic Advantages of Reuse
Reusing the existing structural frame for AXIS delivered significant economic and environmental benefits.
Studies show that reusing structural elements can reduce a project’s embodied carbon by 50–75%, making it a far more sustainable alternative to new construction. In addition, the lightweight Steel Framing System (SFS) used for the façade and four-storey extension ensured the existing structure could support the additional load without extensive reinforcement, further enhancing cost efficiency.
By prioritising reuse, the AXIS project also reduced construction waste and embodied energy, contributing to the principles of the circular economy. This approach demonstrates how thoughtful design can align economic viability with environmental responsibility, offering a model for future developments.
A Model for the Future
The AXIS redevelopment shows that reusing existing buildings is not just an environmentally conscious choice, but also a technically viable one. By combining the old with the new, this project creates modern, sustainable homes while preserving the energy embedded in the building’s original construction.
As cities continue to evolve, projects like AXIS highlight the importance of considering reuse over replacement.
